Party Ideas -- From Hogwarts to Gingerbread -- Festive Themes Abound This Season

Ring in the season by singing Christmas carols and sharing yuletide memories. When it’s tree-trimming time, separate activities by ages, allowing the younger children the opportunity to go first. Guests ages 3 and up will enjoy edible cookie crafting. Decorate freshly baked sugar cookies with colored icing, sprinkles and small candies (use red hots, M&M’s, etc.). Take the chill off the evening by serving chili, soup or stew, along with snowman face sandwiches made of crackers topped with crème cheese and olives placed as eyes. Fun favors should include candy canes, jingle bells and a candle for luminaries.  

Jamie Jarvis is creator of www.kidspartyfun.com, a Web site offering resources for planning kids’ parties.